Diversity at Historically Black Colleges?

Hi all! I've noticed that quite a few institutions are considered predominantly black, based on their student populations. I'm white and interested in these institutions for their educational programs - does anyone have experiences with racial biases at these institutions, or about how they make their diverse student body feel included?

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a rich tradition of fostering a sense of community and belonging for all their students. While they were initially created to provide educational opportunities specifically for Black students during segregation, HBCUs have now grown into multicultural environments. They typically strive for an inclusive atmosphere, where everyone is treated with respect—and your race or ethnicity does not hinder your educational and personal growth.

That being said, it's common to find that the majority of students, faculty, and staff at HBCUs will be African American. As someone who isn't Black, this may create a unique experience for you—it might be the first time you're in a position where you're a racial minority. Many non-Black students find this a great opportunity to learn about different cultures, perspectives, and histories.

As diversity progresses, HBCUs have implemented numerous initiatives to make every student feel welcome and included. This might involve offering a wide range of clubs and organizations that cater to different races, backgrounds, and interests, and promoting dialogues that encourage understanding and respect among students.

Just like any other institution, you will get out of your college experience what you put into it. Being open to understanding perspectives that are different from your own, participating actively in the community, and creating meaningful relationships with your peers and professors can lead to a rewarding college experience.

Of course, everyone's experiences and observations are different. It could be helpful to reach out to current students or alumni from the institutions you're considering to get a personal perspective. Also, visiting college campuses (virtually or in-person, as circumstances allow) can go a long way to getting a feel for each institution's unique culture and level of inclusivity.